Brendan Byers, Executive Director and Vice President of the Oakland Center for the Arts, and founder of "Kids First Theater Initiative" presented information about the resurrection of the Oakland and its expansion into children and youth productions.
From its inception in 1986, the "Oakland" has been through good and bad times but now is doing many productions at its new home on South Avenue. They are able to provide training for young aspiring performers as well as seasoned actors, and Byers is very happy with their new home in Boardman.
The Magic Carpet Theatre group is also able to visit schools as an extension of their appeal. More information is available at . Pictured is Rotary President Christine Vlosich (left) presenting a library book to Brendan Byers in honor of his visit. The book will be donated to the Austintown Elementary School library.
Many successful actors, directors, writers, and choreographers have launched their careers from the Oakland, and also in
other humble, small town playhouses.
